Formation and evaluation of doxorubicin and cromoglycate metal–organic framework for anti-cancer activity

We develop and evaluate copper-based metal-organic frameworks (Cu-MOFs) incorporating cromolyn as a linker to enhance structural stability, drug delivery efficiency, and therapeutic potential, particularly for breast cancer treatment. Two Cu-MOF formulations were synthesized: Cu-MOFs-BDC-DOX (using terephthalic acid) and Cu-MOFs-CROMO-DOX (using cromolyn as a linker). Characterization was performed using SEM/TEM for morphology, and FTIR, XRD, and TGA to confirm structural integrity. Drug encapsulation efficiency and release profiles were assessed, followed by in vitro cytotoxicity, cell migration, and colony formation assays using MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Both formulations demonstrated a high encapsulation efficiency (83-91%) and sustained drug release over 48 h at pH 7.4. Cu-MOFs-CROMO-DOX exhibited superior cytotoxicity with an IC50 of 0.88 ± 0.07 µM compared to 7.1 ± 0.11 µM for Cu-MOFs-BDC-DOX. Both formulations inhibit cancer cell migration and colony formation in a dose-dependent manner. The Cu-MOFs-CROMO-DOX formulation demonstrated enhanced therapeutic potential, outperforming its counterpart in targeting breast cancer cells. This study highlights the promise of MOF-based nanocarriers in overcoming the limitations of conventional chemotherapy, offering a pathway to more effective and targeted cancer treatments with reduced side effects.